Oral surgery, a specialized branch of dentistry, involves surgical procedures designed to treat a range of dental and oral health issues. It goes beyond routine dental care and encompasses treatments that require surgical intervention to achieve optimal outcomes. While dentists strive to resolve dental problems through conservative methods, there are cases where oral surgery becomes necessary for optimal outcomes. In this blog, we will delve into the circumstances under which dentists determine the need for oral surgery, shedding light on the importance of these procedures in maintaining oral health. Our skilled oral surgeons at Emergency Dental Office provide expert surgical solutions to address complex dental issues, ensuring efficient and effective treatment. Before recommending oral surgery, dentists evaluate factors such as the patient’s overall wellness, the severity of the dental issue, and the potential benefits of surgery. By employing oral surgery techniques, dentists can restore oral health, alleviate pain, and enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of the smile. Keep reading this blog to understand conditions when oral surgery is required.
Impacted wisdom teeth: One of the common scenarios that lead dentists to recommend oral surgery is the presence of impacted wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth often do not have enough space to fully emerge, so they cause dental emergencies and serious oral health issues. Dentists may recommend wisdom teeth removal through oral surgery to alleviate discomfort and prevent potential complications.
Severe tooth decay: When tooth decay which is the most common dental emergency, progresses to an advanced stage, it can lead to considerable damage to the tooth structure. In cases where the decay extends deep into the tooth, affecting the pulp and nerve, a simple dental filling may not suffice. Dentists might opt for a root canal procedure, a type of oral surgery, to remove the infected pulp and preserve the tooth’s functionality. If the tooth is severely compromised, extraction followed by tooth replacement options like dental implants or partial dentures might be considered.
Dental implant placement: Dental implants, a popular tooth replacement option, involve oral surgery. When a patient is missing one or more teeth, dentists may recommend dental implants as a durable and natural-looking solution. During the surgery, a titanium implant is inserted into the jawbone to act as a stable foundation for the replacement tooth. Then, the patients should spend a long period healing to be able to get a porcelain crown at the top and complete the treatment. Dentists carefully evaluate the patient’s oral health, bone density, and overall suitability for the procedure before proceeding with implant placement.
Corrective jaw surgery: For individuals with misaligned teeth, cosmetic veneers or orthodontic treatment alone may not address the underlying issue. Dentists might recommend corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, to align the jaws properly. This type of oral surgery can improve bite function, facial aesthetics, and overall oral health.
By understanding the circumstances under which oral surgery is determined, individuals can make informed decisions about their dental care and work alongside their dentists to achieve lasting oral well-being.